7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Bangalore and Pondicherry
Saturday, December 23, 2023: Arrival in Bangalore
Welcome to Bangalore! Start your trip by exploring the Bangalore Palace in the morning. This majestic palace offers a glimpse into the city's history and architectural beauty. In the afternoon, visit Cubbon Park, a lush green oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with your 7-year-old. In the evening, head to Commercial Street for some shopping and street food delights.
Bangalore Palace: INR 250, 2-3 hours
Cubbon Park: Free, 1-2 hours
Commercial Street: Varies, 2-3 hours
Sunday, December 24, 2023: Bangalore Exploration
In the morning, visit Lalbagh Botanical Garden, known for its stunning flora and the iconic Glass House. Enjoy a picnic amidst the beautiful gardens. In the afternoon, take your 7-year-old to Wonderla Amusement Park for an exciting day of thrilling rides and water slides. In the evening, explore Bangalore's electronic city, Indiranagar, known for its trendy cafes and vibrant nightlife.
Lalbagh Botanical Garden: INR 30, 2-3 hours
Wonderla Amusement Park: INR 1,500, full day
Indiranagar: Varies, 2-3 hours
Monday, December 25, 2023: Bangalore to Pondicherry
Start your day by traveling from Bangalore to Pondicherry (approximately 6 hours by road). After reaching Pondicherry, visit the serene Auroville Beach in the afternoon. Let your 7-year-old build sandcastles and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. In the evening, take a stroll along the Promenade Beach and witness the beautiful sunset.
Auroville Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Promenade Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Breakfast Club: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at this cozy cafe known for its fluffy pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Le Dupleix: Indulge in a scrumptious lunch at this charming French restaurant located in a heritage building. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Villa Shanti: Savor a delightful dinner at this trendy restaurant offering a fusion of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about ₹1000 per person.
Tuesday, December 26, 2023: Exploring Pondicherry
Begin your day by visiting the famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual center known for its tranquility. Spend the morning exploring the ashram's beautiful gardens and meditation spaces. In the afternoon, head to Pondicherry Museum to learn about the town's colonial history and art. In the evening, take a boat ride in Chunnambar Backwater and enjoy the scenic views.
Sri Aurobindo Ashram: Free, 2-3 hours
Pondicherry Museum: INR 15, 1-2 hours
Chunnambar Backwater: INR 300, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
The Baker's Street: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Baker's Street, known for its freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
Villa Shanti: Enjoy a delectable lunch at Villa Shanti, a charming restaurant serving a fusion of Indian and French cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Le Dupleix: For dinner, indulge in a fine dining experience at Le Dupleix, located in a beautifully restored heritage building. The restaurant offers a mix of Indian and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 1500 per person.
Wednesday, December 27, 2023: A Day of Adventure in Pondicherry
In the morning, visit Paradise Beach, a secluded beach accessible by boat. Enjoy the sun, sand, and water with your 7-year-old. In the afternoon, head to Arikamedu, an ancient archaeological site that once served as a major trading port. Explore the ruins and learn about the region's history. In the evening, take a bicycle tour of Pondicherry to discover its French Quarter and vibrant streets.
Paradise Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Arikamedu: Free, 1-2 hours
Bicycle Tour: INR 500, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Baker Street: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Baker Street, known for its fresh pastries and bread. Indulge in their croissants and muffins, and enjoy a cup of hot coffee. The average cost for a breakfast at Baker Street is about $10 per person.
Café Xtasi: For lunch, head to Café Xtasi, a popular eatery known for its mouth-watering wood-fired pizzas. Choose from a variety of toppings and enjoy the cozy atmosphere. The average cost for a lunch at Café Xtasi is about $15 per person.
Villa Shanti: End your day with a memorable dinner at Villa Shanti, a charming restaurant in Pondicherry's French Quarter. Experience a fusion of Indian and French cuisine, including delectable seafood dishes. The average cost for a dinner at Villa Shanti is about $25 per person.
Thursday, December 28, 2023: Pondicherry Exploration
Start your day by visiting the Matrimandir, the iconic golden dome in Auroville. Explore the gardens surrounding the Matrimandir and enjoy the serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, take a heritage walk in the French Quarter to admire the colonial architecture and visit charming cafes. In the evening, indulge in some shopping at the famous Sunday Market.
Matrimandir: Free, 2-3 hours
French Quarter Heritage Walk: Free, 2-3 hours
Sunday Market: Varies, 2-3 hours
Friday, December 29, 2023: Farewell to Pondicherry
On your last day, visit the Botanical Garden in the morning, known for its diverse collection of plants and vibrant flowerbeds. In the afternoon, head to Serenity Beach and soak up the sun while your 7-year-old enjoys building sandcastles. In the evening, bid farewell to Pondicherry and travel back to Bangalore.
Botanical Garden: INR 20, 2-3 hours
Serenity Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Pondicherry, don't miss out on visiting the lesser-known Veerampattinam Beach, a beautiful stretch of coastline with calm waters, perfect for a relaxed day with your family. Another local favorite is the Cafe des Arts, a cozy cafe serving delicious French cuisine and a wide variety of pastries.
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